EARTH-BUILT HOTEL OPENS IN SAUDI ARABIA

Operated by Kerten Hospitality, this low-impact, sustainability-led property is the only one of its kind in the world and was created in collaboration with Egyptian architect Shahira Fahmy, who recently featured in RIBA’s 100 Women: Architects in Practice.

In an echo of AlUla Old Town’s 900 surviving traditional houses (some of which have been re-envisioned into luxury accommodation for the property) Dar Tantora The House Hotel has mud and brick stone walls and windows, and is covered in historic murals, now restored to their former glory.

The rustic-luxe hotel comprises 30 rooms and suites, a gym, a yoga and meditation studio, an infinity pool, a restaurant and a spa.

Duplex bedrooms mirror traditional domestic life in the town, with bedrooms upstairs and living/working areas below, while multiple terraces and rooftops optimise views of the oasis and provide a platform for stargazing at night.

Rooms at Dar Tantora The House Hotel start from 1,260 SAR (USD $336) based on single occupancy, including breakfast and all taxes.

To maximise sustainability, the design has been optimised in line with the changing seasons, as light and temperature fluctuates. The property is lit by candlelight and uses traditional ventilation systems, which also reduce environmental impact.

Signature restaurant, Joontos, operates a zero-waste philosophy and sources local ingredients where possible – think mangoes, citrus fruits, dates, pomegranates and root vegetables – and has initiated an agricultural training programme that facilitates local farmers to be an integral part of the food supply chain as hospitality grows in AlUla.

The hotel is within walking distance of Incense Road Market and local boutiques, and offers tours with “rawis” (local guides) to cultural heritage sites such as Hegra, Dadan and Jabal Ikmah.

Jess Hipgrave